How to Get Your First QR Code Mobile Website Client!

82 replies
Hi Warriors,

When I first started marketing services to offline clients, I was a little overwhelmed as to how many businesses there actually are out there. While this is a good thing in the sense of there's plenty of business to be gained, it also makes it very difficult to narrow down who to actually call. I mean seriously, where do you start when there are tens of thousands, even hundreds of thousands of businesses out there who could potentially use your your services? There are plenty of client acquisition techniques, some much better than others, but here is what worked for me specifically in the niche of selling mobile websites linked to QR Codes.

First off, it's all about the leads and who you contact. If you are wasting your time just calling somebody solely because they don't have a mobile website, you are not going to have much luck getting new clients. Will you be able to get any? Absolutely. Will it be the best use of your time? Absolutely NOT. It's hard to believe, but there are still businesses in late 2011 that still don't see the need of having a regular website. Do you think they are going to care about the whole "mobile revolution" or anything like that? Doubtful...

So how do you go about finding leads who will actively want a mobile website with a QR Code? Simple... look for businesses who are already running print ads. Start saving Coupon Clippers & ValPak's that come in the mail. Look through your local newspaper and any local magazines. Grab copies of the Yellow Pages and any other printed business directory. You will now have narrowed down your potential clients to folks who are already spending money on advertising.

Here's the dirty secret about advertising (which some of you may know if you have run print ads yourself) -- everybody is oversold and ends up being disappointed with the results they end up getting. When a business owner runs an ad, they are spending anywhere from a couple hundred dollars into the thousands. They have an expectation that this ad is going to change their business for the better. Unfortunately for them, results are typically far less than they expected.

This disappointment is what you are going to capitalize on when contacting leads. By letting them know that with a QR Code linked to a mobile website, they can turn their "static print ad into an interactive piece of media" and improve the ROI on their existing print ads, you will instantly gain their interest. As an added bonus, you know they are already spending money on advertising, so you won't be wasting your time targeting businesses who will end up having no budget or intention of buying from you. The thing here is to really stress the aspect of using QR Codes. Yes, you can go and make QR Codes for free, and the real value you are providing is building a mobile website, but my experience has been that QR Codes are what "hook" people in.

Another tip that I have found to work well is to call the mobile website a Mobile Web App. Most people associate Apps with mobile phones more so than websites anyway, so this really helps put things into terminology that business owners think they understand. This slight tweak in wording will also keep clients from having their current web designer do the work. Most businesses already have a web designer these days, but nobody has a Mobile Web App builder.

If this all seems obvious and simple-- it's because it is! As humans with complex brains (well some of us!), we are constantly making things more difficult than they need to be. When it comes to sales, go for the low hanging fruit. There is no need to climb higher up the tree to get those hard-to-get clients when there is such easy pickings!

I invite you to check out a previous post of mine: The reason you HATE COLD CALLING is because you're lousy at it... Here's how to change that TODAY! Take the what you have learned in this post and apply it to the Warrior Challenge from my previous post. Go find 20 potential leads using the strategy in this post and call them to SET UP AN APPOINTMENT.

Once you have set an appointment, there are a few things that you need to have ready. First, create a demo mobile website and print out a QR Code that links to it. I can't stress enough the power of the demo. Business owners are so impressed with the technology and their minds start to race with the potential of it.

Next, have a service agreement/contract ready to close them right away. More times than not I close the deal on the first appointment. If you don't close on the first appointment, maybe 10% will end up buying from you down the road, so it is important to go for the close on your first meeting.

Overall, just meeting with prospects that you have set appointments with using the method above, 20% - 25% will buy from you no matter what. You can be the worst salesperson in the world and they will still buy from you because of being so impressed with QR Code technology. As you go to more and more appointments, you will figure out what specifically works for you in terms of acquiring clients.

Remember, it is important to LISTEN TO YOUR PROSPECT. Ask lots of questions and get them talking. Ask them how their print ad campaign is working out for them. Ask if they think it could have gone better. Listen to what they say and tweak your pitch to fit into their goals and experiences. Many times a business owner will end up selling themselves on the technology because you let them talk so much!

So go check out my Cold Calling post if you haven't already and start making those calls to get your first QR Code client!!

-Ben

P.S. If you find this post helpful, feel free to hit "THANKS" below. Also feel free to rate the thread as 5-star Excellent on the Rate Thread tab at the top of this post! Thanks everyone!!
#client #code #cold calling #mobile #mobile marketing #offline #qr codes #website
  • Profile picture of the author Dustin Goode
    Thank you for the great tips. As you said in the post, a lot of it is just crazy simple...just remember "K.I.S.S." Keep It Simple Stupid
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    • Profile picture of the author rlhurst
      "Mobile Web App"

      Brilliant!!


      Here's what I've done lately for a few folks.....

      My Dentist just had their old website updated by a company that used a wordpress theme. The mobile version just goes to the blog section. I made up a customized version of their new site with "meet the doctors", "meet the staff", "contact" pages, etc. I then printed out a 5x7 page with the qr code, decorated with their new logo, and a "scan code with your smartphone to visit our new website". I put the page in one of those 5x7 plastic stands that sits on the counter. Oh, on the bottom I put web design by.... "my company" Then I gave it to them for FREE

      Many people coming and going being exposed to MY creation.


      Same thing with the drive thru coffee stand's menu.... FREE
      Many people coming and going being exposed to MY creation

      Tried talking to the Figaro's Pizza owner the other day. He was by himself and real busy, so I didn't have a chance to fully explain.... I did throw out FREE, however, and that perked him up a bit. So, before I left, I grabbed their lunch menu flier, and created a mobile site for that with tap to call, tap for directions. Now, my plan is to go back in, at LUNCH TIME, and order a sandwich. But here's the kicker....... I'm going to browse through the menu on my phone, then when I think I've narrowed it down, I will turn the phone to the owner and tell him I want "that one"........ then wait for his reaction. Actually, I should tap the call button and order over the phone!!!

      Result will be... many people coming and going being exposed to MY creation.

      These didn't take me long at all to create, it's a great way to spread my name/brand, and it cost's the owner nothing.

      After 6 months or so, I'm going to go back to these guys and offer to give them the files for the site, for FREE. They can put it on their hosting... OR... I can host for them for a small monthly fee.

      Giving a few things away for free, REALLY helped ease the apprehension of approaching these owners. Just knowing that you're "going in" with the intention of giving away makes it a whole lot easier...... it pretty much sells itself.
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      • Profile picture of the author PaulFL
        Originally Posted by rlhurst View Post

        "Mobile Web App"

        Brilliant!!


        Here's what I've done lately for a few folks.....

        My Dentist just had their old website updated by a company that used a wordpress theme. The mobile version just goes to the blog section. I made up a customized version of their new site with "meet the doctors", "meet the staff", "contact" pages, etc. I then printed out a 5x7 page with the qr code, decorated with their new logo, and a "scan code with your smartphone to visit our new website". I put the page in one of those 5x7 plastic stands that sits on the counter. Oh, on the bottom I put web design by.... "my company" Then I gave it to them for FREE

        Many people coming and going being exposed to MY creation.


        Same thing with the drive thru coffee stand's menu.... FREE
        Many people coming and going being exposed to MY creation

        Tried talking to the Figaro's Pizza owner the other day. He was by himself and real busy, so I didn't have a chance to fully explain.... I did throw out FREE, however, and that perked him up a bit. So, before I left, I grabbed their lunch menu flier, and created a mobile site for that with tap to call, tap for directions. Now, my plan is to go back in, at LUNCH TIME, and order a sandwich. But here's the kicker....... I'm going to browse through the menu on my phone, then when I think I've narrowed it down, I will turn the phone to the owner and tell him I want "that one"........ then wait for his reaction. Actually, I should tap the call button and order over the phone!!!

        Result will be... many people coming and going being exposed to MY creation.

        These didn't take me long at all to create, it's a great way to spread my name/brand, and it cost's the owner nothing.

        After 6 months or so, I'm going to go back to these guys and offer to give them the files for the site, for FREE. They can put it on their hosting... OR... I can host for them for a small monthly fee.

        Giving a few things away for free, REALLY helped ease the apprehension of approaching these owners. Just knowing that you're "going in" with the intention of giving away makes it a whole lot easier...... it pretty much sells itself.
        Instead of just giving it away for free, you could also change that to, "Would you like to see how to get it free? or something like that)" Exchange for referrals and testimonials. Leverage the favor into multiple sales with his entire network.

        Just a thought....
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        • Profile picture of the author rlhurst
          Originally Posted by PaulFL View Post

          Instead of just giving it away for free, you could also change that to, "Would you like to see how to get it free? or something like that)" Exchange for referrals and testimonials. Leverage the favor into multiple sales with his entire network.

          Just a thought....
          Thanks for the tip. I'm sure I'll be tweeking things as I go.
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          • Profile picture of the author rlhurst
            By the way, I pulled the "lunch order skit" today....... and it worked.

            Went into Figaro's, said I'd like to order a sandwich, the gal asked which one, I took out my phone (with the site already loaded) and scrolled down with her watching and stopped on one and showed her the phone and said, "That one"! The owner was behind the food counter making a pizza, he came over, took a look, and after assuring him it really was free, in exchange for that plastic stand with the qr code and my website name, he agreed to the deal.

            It was a fun day!
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            • Profile picture of the author awww1some
              I am going to use the wording Mobile Web App.

              Thank you Warrior Ben for the briilliant idea.
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  • Profile picture of the author mjbmedia
    Just a friendly word of caution - QR codes in printed ads, especially local papers, require a certain quality of printing of every single copy to be effective.

    You need to seriously bear this in mind as it will be a nightmare proving to the publishers that their printing was at fault for the QR code not being readable to a number of phones, meanwhile your previously impressed client is now somewhat seething
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    • Profile picture of the author rlhurst
      Originally Posted by mjbmedia View Post

      Just a friendly word of caution - QR codes in printed ads, especially local papers, require a certain quality of printing of every single copy to be effective.

      You need to seriously bear this in mind as it will be a nightmare proving to the publishers that their printing was at fault for the QR code not being readable to a number of phones, meanwhile your previously impressed client is now somewhat seething
      Good point. When I was printing those 5x7 cards, I started with glossy paper with the printer set to "best" print quality. When I tested on my phone, it wouldn't scan. Too much "gloss", I guess. I went to more of a matte finish and it worked fine.

      Key is to test in multiple light conditions to be sure it works! As far as the local paper goes, that's an interesting point. I would probably stay away from any decoration of the code that might make it not work. I'm actually going to find out next week, as one of the eye doctors in town is using the code I gave them in the paper for their ad. I hope it works!! One comfort is that I showed them it worked in person, so the fact they took the code and gave it to the paper will go a long way in proving it was the print quality (if it doesn't work), and NOT the code I gave them.
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      • Profile picture of the author Pierre!
        More Awesome Information!

        I *love* this place...

        I will be back and studying more...

        Thanks Warrior Ben

        Patrick
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      • Profile picture of the author IdeaFool
        Originally Posted by rlhurst View Post

        Good point. When I was printing those 5x7 cards, I started with glossy paper with the printer set to "best" print quality. When I tested on my phone, it wouldn't scan. Too much "gloss", I guess. I went to more of a matte finish and it worked fine.

        Key is to test in multiple light conditions to be sure it works! As far as the local paper goes, that's an interesting point. I would probably stay away from any decoration of the code that might make it not work. I'm actually going to find out next week, as one of the eye doctors in town is using the code I gave them in the paper for their ad. I hope it works!! One comfort is that I showed them it worked in person, so the fact they took the code and gave it to the paper will go a long way in proving it was the print quality (if it doesn't work), and NOT the code I gave them.
        Could you do me a HUGE favor and let us know how the newspaper ad worked? Your answer will have a massive impact on my business plan and model.

        Thank you so much!
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        • Profile picture of the author mjbmedia
          Originally Posted by IdeaFool View Post

          Could you do me a HUGE favor and let us know how the newspaper ad worked? Your answer will have a massive impact on my business plan and model.

          Thank you so much!
          its none of my business but one ad is really going to have a massive impact on your business plan and model (thats scary)
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          • Profile picture of the author IdeaFool
            Originally Posted by mjbmedia View Post

            its none of my business but one ad is really going to have a massive impact on your business plan and model (thats scary)
            Since you deemed it necessary to pipe in here, allow me to educate you. I plan on selling QR codes to realtors who happen to place ads in newspapers. All the time. One of the benefits to the realtor is that they can use the QR code as mentioned in the original post: Turning a static print ad into an interactive piece of media.

            Therefore, finding out how well QR codes work when printed in newsprint might be something worth knowing, don't you think? See, I like to think of myself as an honest businessman, and would not be comfortable with the idea of telling a customer that the QR code he is buying from me will be GREAT for print ads, when they might not work so well in newsprint.

            So, yes. Finding out how well they work in newsprint could have a massive impact on my business model.

            It was not just "one ad," but thank you for assuming.
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            • Profile picture of the author awww1some
              My newspaper puts a 3M brand sticky note stuck right on the

              front page at an added cost. not glossy and Qr code ready.

              well worth the extra cost. Almost 100% readership. It is called

              Instutional advertising with the added benefit of the Qr code.
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            • Profile picture of the author mjbmedia
              Originally Posted by IdeaFool View Post

              Since you deemed it necessary to pipe in here, allow me to educate you. I plan on selling QR codes to realtors who happen to place ads in newspapers. All the time. One of the benefits to the realtor is that they can use the QR code as mentioned in the original post: Turning a static print ad into an interactive piece of media.

              Therefore, finding out how well QR codes work when printed in newsprint might be something worth knowing, don't you think? See, I like to think of myself as an honest businessman, and would not be comfortable with the idea of telling a customer that the QR code he is buying from me will be GREAT for print ads, when they might not work so well in newsprint.

              So, yes. Finding out how well they work in newsprint could have a massive impact on my business model.

              It was not just "one ad," but thank you for assuming.
              hey sorry mate, it wasnt meant to come across quite that way , just your wording suggested the decision hung on this guys one ad which I know it didnt but couldnt resist the toungue in cheek jibe .
              QR codes are already being used in print ads , in newspapers etc so you can already find it out if you want to bad enough , theyre in many papers here in the UK many days running (mainly by the papers themselves but other ads use them too) , I tried and some scanned Ok some didnt hence my earlier friendly warning post .
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              • Profile picture of the author IdeaFool
                Originally Posted by mjbmedia View Post

                hey sorry mate, it wasnt meant to come across quite that way , just your wording suggested the decision hung on this guys one ad which I know it didnt but couldnt resist the toungue in cheek jibe .
                QR codes are already being used in print ads , in newspapers etc so you can already find it out if you want to bad enough , theyre in many papers here in the UK many days running (mainly by the papers themselves but other ads use them too) , I tried and some scanned Ok some didnt hence my earlier friendly warning post .
                mjbmedia,

                Please forgive me. I regretted posting my response almost immediately. My wife and I have 4 children, 2 of which have special needs (autism.) It was just one of those irritating days having to fight ignorant education officials to get the services our children need and have the right to receive, and I shouldn't have let the post get to me.

                I sincerely apologize for my tone and bad attitude, and I hope we can move forward in the interests of goodwill and sharing information.

                Thank you.
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        • Profile picture of the author PaulFL
          Originally Posted by IdeaFool View Post

          Could you do me a HUGE favor and let us know how the newspaper ad worked? Your answer will have a massive impact on my business plan and model.

          Thank you so much!
          I'm not sure what you mean by massive but are you basing your business on newspaper ads? In my mind, an ad is just a single tactic in a marketing strategy. Given that the newspaper business is going the way of the dinosaurs, I'd reconsider giving it too much weight in your business plan.

          There are multiple factors involved in any ad's success and the media selected is only one. You also need to insure you're reaching your market with the right media and the right message. Without knowing exactly what the OP's ad is all about, I don't believe it's advisable to base your decisions on it's success.
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          • Profile picture of the author IdeaFool
            Originally Posted by PaulFL View Post

            I'm not sure what you mean by massive but are you basing your business on newspaper ads? In my mind, an ad is just a single tactic in a marketing strategy. Given that the newspaper business is going the way of the dinosaurs, I'd reconsider giving it too much weight in your business plan.

            There are multiple factors involved in any ad's success and the media selected is only one. You also need to insure you're reaching your market with the right media and the right message. Without knowing exactly what the OP's ad is all about, I don't believe it's advisable to base your decisions on it's success.
            Hi Paul,

            Thank you for your input. Please refer to my response to another warrior above your post. I am not basing my business on newspaper ads for my company. I am basing it on the ability of my clients to use the QR codes I create for them in print ads. My clients are realtors. They use print media constantly for their listings. Whole local publications are distributed free that have nothing but property listings in them. Whole sections of newspapers are dedicated to real estate listings. I want to be able to tell my clients that the QR codes I create for them can be used (or not used as the case may be) in these magazine and newspaper ads. So, the ability of newsprint to accurately reproduce these QR codes will indeed have an impact on my business plan.
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        • Profile picture of the author rlhurst
          Originally Posted by IdeaFool View Post

          Could you do me a HUGE favor and let us know how the newspaper ad worked? Your answer will have a massive impact on my business plan and model.

          Thank you so much!
          Sure. The ad comes out next Wednesday. I will let everyone know how it turned out
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    • Profile picture of the author Warrior Ben
      Originally Posted by mjbmedia View Post

      Just a friendly word of caution - QR codes in printed ads, especially local papers, require a certain quality of printing of every single copy to be effective.
      This is very true... I just created a separate post that outlines how to create a high quality print ready QR Code.

      You can find it at http://www.warriorforum.com/offline-...g-clients.html

      I hope this helps anybody who may have questions on how to do this!

      -Ben
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      • Profile picture of the author IdeaFool
        Originally Posted by Warrior Ben View Post

        This is very true... I just created a separate post that outlines how to create a high quality print ready QR Code.

        You can find it at http://www.warriorforum.com/offline-...g-clients.html

        I hope this helps anybody who may have questions on how to do this!

        -Ben
        Thank you, thank you, thank you!
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    • Profile picture of the author DrPaul
      Originally Posted by mjbmedia View Post

      Just a friendly word of caution - QR codes in printed ads, especially local papers, require a certain quality of printing of every single copy to be effective.

      You need to seriously bear this in mind as it will be a nightmare proving to the publishers that their printing was at fault for the QR code not being readable to a number of phones, meanwhile your previously impressed client is now somewhat seething
      I've seen that issue on too many different media. Here are some solutions.

      Be sure to use bit.ly for links to reduce the size of the data. The more data, the bigger and more detailed the QR must be.

      Be sure to set the level of error correction when encoding, and raise it or lower it depending on the final printout quality.

      Be sure to set for the best contrast. Magazines do real well at printing black on white QR because the paper is cleaner, but newspapers are sometimes a medium grey, not white, I've found it's sometimes better use a white on black pattern for small QR's in newsprint and colored papers.

      Try outputting DOTS instead of SQUARES when building your QR. Newspapers will sometimes have difficulty on solid black patterns and lines. Using round dots in a QR pattern rather than black squares reduces the chances of your black on white pattern having empty streaks in the inks and lets you print the QR larger so more phones will be able to read it.
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  • Profile picture of the author ladymd
    QR Codes have worked great for our clients, thanks for the post - great tips.
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    • Profile picture of the author Centurian
      Hey Ben! Thanks for this great resource.

      I've been planning on pushing into the mobile market with my clients and this is a great start.

      No doubt this is the new arena and it's wide open.

      Love your avatar. I use this same logo on some info products for sales people.

      Thanks again.

      Centurian
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  • Profile picture of the author Jaxxxon
    I've got 3-4 different scanning apps on my phone. I've found that if one app doesn't work, sometimes the other will. I've also read that the phone/camera/lens (lens or settings) can obscure the scanning results -- so what may work with some phones may not work with others.
    Either way, it's safe to say that an inability for the phone to read the code may be due to a few variables and may not always be the printed media at fault.
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  • Profile picture of the author Brian F Adams
    Ben you have some of the best ideas I have seen here in the WF. Love your stuff and use it. Thanks again for all the help!
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  • Profile picture of the author awww1some
    My newspaper puts a 3M brand sticky note stuck right on the

    front page at an added cost. not glossy and Qr code ready.

    well worth the extra cost. Almost 100% readership. It is called

    Instutional advertising with the added benefit of the Qr code.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4546346].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author BrandyM
    So your going into the meeting selling them 1 QR code that links back to a mobile website that you create them.

    1. What are you using to create the custom mobile web app? Is it something you got from a WSO?
    2. Do they have to have an existing website in order to insert the script into their index.html file? If they don't have a site I suppose you sell them one, right?
    3. Are you specifically targeting only those who run newspaper ads so they can inject the QR code in their next ad?

    Thanks in advance to anyone who takes the time to reply!
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    • Profile picture of the author IdeaFool
      Originally Posted by loyaltytoday View Post

      So your going into the meeting selling them 1 QR code that links back to a mobile website that you create them.

      1. What are you using to create the custom mobile web app? Is it something you got from a WSO?
      2. Do they have to have an existing website in order to insert the script into their index.html file? If they don't have a site I suppose you sell them one, right?
      3. Are you specifically targeting only those who run newspaper ads so they can inject the QR code in their next ad?

      Thanks in advance to anyone who takes the time to reply!
      In my particular case, the answers to your questions are:
      1. I was using a template I bought from an individual but am currently revamping the sites using Ben's free template. It's much cleaner and easier to manipulate than the one I was using.
      2. No, my clients (realtors) do not have to have an existing website. The codes I create direct to a mini-site for an individual property listing.
      3. No, on the "specifically targeting" question. However, realtors advertise their listings in magazines and newspapers, on flyers and on yard signs. I want the realtor to be able to display the QR code for the property on any form of advertisement in which that property is displayed.
      See how cool I am? I even share information with a Texan!

      BOOMER SOONER!
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    • Profile picture of the author Warrior Ben
      Hi LoyaltyToday, thank you very much for your kind words! I've broken down your questions below. I hope this helps!

      Originally Posted by loyaltytoday View Post

      1. What are you using to create the custom mobile web app? Is it something you got from a WSO?
      I use HTML files to create the mobile web site. I have about 5 different templates that I use and then I customize them to what my clients want. It wasn't something that I got from a WSO, but I'm sure there might be some good templates out there. I actually taught myself how to write HTML back in high school (over 10 years ago!) and fortunately my 1998 HTML skills work for mobile websites because they are supposed to be simple by definition.


      Originally Posted by loyaltytoday View Post

      2. Do they have to have an existing website in order to insert the script into their index.html file? If they don't have a site I suppose you sell them one, right?
      I have up-sold some clients on a whole new website, but I actually host most of the mobile sites on my hosting plan. I do this because it is easier for everybody involved-- on my end I don't have to get their login or pw for their existing hosting to upload the files and on their end they don't have to do anything but wait for the final product. A few clients have wanted me to put the files on their hosting and I always oblige. The main way that people are accessing the mobile sites is through QR Codes, so the specific web address is really not that important. There are scripts that you can install so if somebody goes directly to www.companydomain.com they will be redirected to the mobile site if they are on a mobile phone.


      Originally Posted by loyaltytoday View Post

      3. Are you specifically targeting only those who run newspaper ads so they can inject the QR code in their next ad?
      Yes, I specifically target those who are running ads. Not just newspaper ads, but also yellow pages, valpaks, coupon clipper, and anywhere else where there is printed advertising. The reason I target those folks is because I know they already have an advertising budget and a QR Code on a print ad makes perfect sense.


      Originally Posted by loyaltytoday View Post

      How much does something like this sell for? $297? Do you have them write a check?
      I charge between $299 and $499 depending on how many pages they want on their mobile site and how big their budget is. It is important to ask lots of questions when you are selling your services so that you can figure this stuff out. In addition, I also charge anywhere from $19 to $99 a month depending on whether it is just hosting or if I'm offering analytics for them to gauge the effectiveness of different ads they are running.

      As for method of payment, I use Intuit GoPayment (Intuit GoPayment &ndash; iPhone credit card processing for mobile payments) which allows me to run their credit card directly on my smartphone. It also makes it really easy for me to set up automatic monthly recurring payments. Both on the spot and for the recurring, as soon as the transaction goes through, the client gets a receipt e-mailed to them. This avoids having to do invoicing or writing up your own receipt.


      Originally Posted by loyaltytoday View Post

      Is there a way to use QR codes in combination with SMS Text for example they scan the code and it is able send them a text message?
      Yes there is. I actually just wrote a post about this that you can read at http://www.warriorforum.com/offline-...-into-one.html

      I hope this answers your questions, but let me know if you have any more!


      Also, rlhurst, I love hearing your experience of getting out there and getting QR Codes in different businesses. When I first stared my company, I did the same thing-- went out and offered them for free. It's a great way to get your feet wet and practice meeting people. Once you get more comfortable talking to folks and have examples of your work, you'll be able to transition into selling them without any problems. Please keep us all updated on your experience-- I think it will be motivating to other Warriors who are looking to "take action"!

      -Ben
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  • Profile picture of the author BrandyM
    Oh and Warrior Ben I've been reading only your posts for the last hour and wow I'm totally impressed! The cold calling one was my favorite. I've been in technical phone support for years but I still hate getting on the phone to call people!

    Now if I can just hack your computer for the powerpoint presentations and client contract forms and then get everything in your briefcase I was would be set! (tee hee)
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  • Profile picture of the author BrandyM
    I have so many questions and yes I'm one that over thinks everything. Don't hate me please!

    How much does something like this sell for? $297? Do you have them write a check?

    I like rlhurst idea of giving away the little stands with the code and giving away the mobile web app since they are so easy to make. But RL how are you making money by giving it away? Are you hoping that the free advertisement will have people calling you to make them one and then you start charging?

    I have about 5 of those little stands laying around and wouldn't mind giving them away for exposure.

    Is there a way to use QR codes in combination with SMS Text for example they scan the code and it is able send them a text message?

    My mind is running a mile a minute.
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    • Profile picture of the author rlhurst
      Originally Posted by loyaltytoday View Post


      I like rlhurst idea of giving away the little stands with the code and giving away the mobile web app since they are so easy to make. But RL how are you making money by giving it away? Are you hoping that the free advertisement will have people calling you to make them one and then you start charging?
      That's it. I'm putting them in high traffic businesses, where other business people frequent (coffee, lunchtime, eye doctor, dentist). The QR codes in the plastic stands are colorful ( I'm not just using the plain B&W ones.) I learned how to make these from Quentin's program. There's a few folks here who offer a program for this. I'm not desperate for work/money right now, so I guess that gives me some freedom to slowly build this. And, it really doesn't take me long to whip one of these out. As far as hosting goes, right now I'm just using one of my accounts.... "theircompany.myname.com" type thing.
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  • Profile picture of the author crazygreat
    Thanks! That was really helpful in a place where I was stuck. Mobile Web App is definitely the way to present it. I almost want to kick myself for trying to sell mobile websites by presenting it as a "site". I realized the other night that I was creating sites that look like Foursquare and that anyone should realize that this has huge potential for an individual business, but I still didn't make the "app" connection. Now, I have and will probably raise my new business count within a week!
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  • Profile picture of the author dudeontheweb
    Mobile web app. That's killer!
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    Need a QR Code? Check out my QR Code Generator. It's FREE!

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  • Profile picture of the author zenyatta
    I use qr codes for my clients to link videos, webpages, Facebook fanpages, mobile websites, text message optins, you name it. Our platform is very easy and it allows clients to make their own or we do it for them in 12 different colors and 3 sizes. Since QR Codes have a 30% error correction rate I have found them to be quite forgiving in being able to scan. I design logos into the code and print on glossy stock all the time without problems.
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  • Profile picture of the author philboy uk
    Hi Warrior Ben

    this is a simple tool that helps with editing index.html file of your template

    Find replace multiple files

    just set up the rules and save for next time
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  • Profile picture of the author Renavon
    Thanks for the tips QR codes are still breaking in really, will be interesting to see where they go
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  • Profile picture of the author BrandyM
    Thanks Warrior Ben and everyone else who has participated in this thread you guys ROCK! I've found out so much in just these few threads that will help my business tremendously. Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge!
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  • Profile picture of the author pouringpound
    Thank you for the best thread and all of them did discussion here. i really appreciate it1 The discussion is really informatory and helpful.
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  • Profile picture of the author darrylb
    Warrior Ben: This is sooo going to help me take you up on your challenge. Yet another thank you, sir!
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  • Profile picture of the author MatthewGreen
    What about adding an opt in on there add for text message marketing? I would think that would be cool to implement because then you will gain leads from there advertising campaign and be able to market to them even after there ad runs in the classifieds.
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    • Profile picture of the author Warrior Ben
      Originally Posted by darrylb View Post

      Warrior Ben: This is sooo going to help me take you up on your challenge. Yet another thank you, sir!
      Sounds good Darryl! Keep us all posted on how it goes!


      Originally Posted by MatthewGreen View Post

      What about adding an opt in on there add for text message marketing? I would think that would be cool to implement because then you will gain leads from there advertising campaign and be able to market to them even after there ad runs in the classifieds.
      Yeah, that is a great idea... another way to turn things on their head is to create a QR Code that sends a text message to opt-in to a list. Then the return text message that confirms you opted in can contain a link to the mobile site. This way, you are able to capture customer data (their phone number) and put them into a database, as well as have the website link stored on their phone. Text messages stay on a person's phone for an average of 12 days, so it's a great way to get repeat exposure to the site.

      -Ben
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  • Hi, Ben !

    Very helpful and creative... I'm going to check out all your other 'reports' - if they're as good as this one,... I'm in business

    Hal
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  • Profile picture of the author mobilehelper210
    Wow, I just came across your material and find it to be very informative and to the point. Thank you for sharing!

    I wish I would've come across your material a whole lot sooner! I've already spent some money on other mobile website programs. They too were informative and helpful however I guess I was just overwhelmed with the info provided.

    Your material reminds me to K.I.S.S.

    Frank
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  • Profile picture of the author BlogDiva
    Thank you Ben for such a GREAT idea. Actually while reading this, it game another Idea I can do with the QR Codes that may be attractive to business owners.
    I love the WF Such a wonderful place to learn!
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  • Profile picture of the author JamesMason
    I was just about to start doing some offline marketing.

    This came at just the right time.

    Thanks for taking your time to write this!

    James
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    • Profile picture of the author warrioradam
      This is great stuff Ben. I live in a college town/area that can greatly benefit from these services and I have not saw any businesses with these yet.

      I know I can handle the sales I have sold tons of things door to door so that's not an issue.

      I have a few questions for everyone here....

      My issue is how to actually build the mobile site. Does anyone have links to articles on how to design one?

      How much HTML experience do you need? I have taken just a basic class in high school.

      Thanks and keep rocking guys!


      Edit://

      If anyone would like to do a 30 day business challenge with me and try to get a business like this up and running let me know we could collaborate on skype and help each other other
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      • Profile picture of the author WillR
        Originally Posted by warrioradam View Post

        This is great stuff Ben. I live in a college town/area that can greatly benefit from these services and I have not saw any businesses with these yet.

        I know I can handle the sales I have sold tons of things door to door so that's not an issue.

        I have a few questions for everyone here....

        My issue is how to actually build the mobile site. Does anyone have links to articles on how to design one?

        How much HTML experience do you need? I have taken just a basic class in high school.

        Thanks and keep rocking guys!


        Edit://

        If anyone would like to do a 30 day business challenge with me and try to get a business like this up and running let me know we could collaborate on skype and help each other other
        It's not just the html side of things you need to master. You also need to have a good grasp of the mobile web standards otherwise your sites will not work across the majority of devices.

        The official mobile web best practices can be found here:
        Mobile Web Best Practices 1.0

        There's a fair bit to take in there. When you have a site put together you are best to run it through the W3C mobile validator which is an easier way to see what you need to improve or fix to make your site more mobile friendly:

        W3C mobileOK Checker

        If your mobile site is scoring anything less than about 85-90% then you really need to go back and make some changes otherwise you are not optimizing the web experience for all your visitors.
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      • Profile picture of the author Warrior Ben
        Originally Posted by warrioradam View Post

        My issue is how to actually build the mobile site. Does anyone have links to articles on how to design one?

        How much HTML experience do you need? I have taken just a basic class in high school.
        Hey Adam,

        WillR has some excellent advice above and it is definitely worth testing out the mobile site before handing it over to your client.

        As for HTML experience, if you have basic familiarity with HTML & CSS, you should be fine. The whole purpose of a mobile site is that it is very simple and not heavy on graphics or design. You want to build it so it loads quickly on a mobile device and only contains the pertinent information about the business you are building it for. Fortunately this means that you don't need advance HTML knowledge to build it.

        I hope this help! I also like your idea of a 30 day challenge... without knowing the time commitment to it just yet, this might be something that I can help facilitate. If there are other Warriors who would find this useful, let me know and maybe we can get something going.

        -Ben
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      • Profile picture of the author Warrior Ben
        Originally Posted by warrioradam View Post

        I have a few questions for everyone here....

        My issue is how to actually build the mobile site. Does anyone have links to articles on how to design one?

        How much HTML experience do you need? I have taken just a basic class in high school.
        Hey Adam,

        The beauty about mobile websites is that by definition they are very simple. I know basic HTML and I started out creating the sites myself. Once I had a few different templates down I got an outsourcer to do all the work. Your HTML skills from a high school class should work when getting started. As you grow your business and get more clients, you will see that some want something more custom. This is where you can utilize eLance.com to get more custom work.

        Also, WillR has a great set of templates as a WSO. He includes videos on how to update them and everything. I think he charges $17 if you leave a review on the WSO thread. Just from the pictures he shows I can tell you it is well worth the price just to be able to have a demo to show potential clients.

        Best of luck moving forward and keep us posted on how it goes with getting clients!

        -Ben
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  • Profile picture of the author keliix06
    Most business owners would be happy with something very simple. Take the free template from Ben and just customize the colors to match the business branding.
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  • Profile picture of the author Roma01
    Great information thanks!

    Roma01
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  • Profile picture of the author Roma01
    Thanks Ben, as usual great information.
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  • Profile picture of the author Roma01
    Thanks again Ben, great stuff!
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  • Profile picture of the author Roma01
    Thanks Ben once again for starting a great thread and all the other contributors that have put so much other useful information in. All good!
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  • Profile picture of the author Warrior Ben
    Originally Posted by microsoftofd View Post

    Cool post indeed.Your sharing is much appreciated.
    No problem, I'm happy to share knowledge-- that is what makes WF so great!

    I'm curious if anybody has gone out and started getting QR Code clients yet? I'd love to hear any success stories or if anybody has any questions on how to get started.

    -Ben
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    • Profile picture of the author Anthony Boult
      Originally Posted by Warrior Ben View Post

      No problem, I'm happy to share knowledge-- that is what makes WF so great!

      -Ben
      Hi Ben, just wondered if you could shed a bit of light on some conflicting information I've been reading.

      With your mobile template, you use .png files for the images, yet when I was reading WillR's thread you posted on, he says that .gif or .jpeg should be used (not .png).

      Is it just a preference thing? or does one format perform better/faster than the other?

      Thanks for all your info.

      Anthony
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      • Profile picture of the author Warrior Ben
        Originally Posted by Anthony Boult View Post

        Hi Ben, just wondered if you could shed a bit of light on some conflicting information I've been reading.

        With your mobile template, you use .png files for the images, yet when I was reading WillR's thread you posted on, he says that .gif or .jpeg should be used (not .png).

        Is it just a preference thing? or does one format perform better/faster than the other?

        Thanks for all your info.

        Anthony
        Hi Anthony,

        This is a very good question. The reason I use .PNG files is two-fold. First, the file sizes are typically smaller than JPG or GIF files, which is important for quick loading time on a mobile phone. Second, I like PNG because they have "negative" space in the file. I'm not sure if that is the technical term, but what it means is that instead of having a white background, there will be an clear background which allows the colors of website to essentially show through the negative space on the PNG file. I find that it makes everything look cleaner on a site. I hope that makes sense...

        I'm not sure if there are actual mobile standards that say to use GIF or JPG instead of PNG, but I have had no problems at all when testing out my mobile sites on a variety of devices, ranging from iPhone to Android to BlackBerry. WillR might be able to add a little more perspective to this, but I'm guessing he said use GIF or JPG because they are the most common types of files.


        Originally Posted by elepepe View Post

        Hi Ben,
        thanks for your posts.
        At the same time I like to inform you that after I insert my email in your squeeze page I was redirect to the landing page, but I never received the email for the template.
        Any help?
        Emanuele
        Hey Emanuele,

        First, check your SPAM folder to make sure it isn't in there and if it isn't then you might have typed in your e-mail incorrectly. The way the opt-in form works is that as soon as you hit submit it will send you to the next page. So even if you type in your e-mail as dkjfaslgjfds@jkdslfjdsalf.com it will send you to the page-- it doesn't check if it is accurate or not. Try resubmitting with a new e-mail and it should work. If it doesn't, send me a PM with your e-mail address and I will e-mail the template to you.

        -Ben
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      • Profile picture of the author MUNK26
        Originally Posted by Anthony Boult View Post

        Hi Ben, just wondered if you could shed a bit of light on some conflicting information I've been reading.

        With your mobile template, you use .png files for the images, yet when I was reading WillR's thread you posted on, he says that .gif or .jpeg should be used (not .png).

        Is it just a preference thing? or does one format perform better/faster than the other?

        Thanks for all your info.

        Anthony
        Maybe I can be of some assistance with your question. First off, some would use a jpeg or .gif instead of a png because they are smaller in file size resulting in loading quicker as compared to a .png file. You would use a .png file whenever you want to put an image over a background without having the whitespace around your image as associated with the jpeg file. Personally I would go with a .gif type file as you get a little bit of the best of both worlds the mid size file and the ability to not have the whitespace in your image when placing it on your site.
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  • Profile picture of the author elepepe
    Hi Ben,
    thanks for your posts.
    At the same time I like to inform you that after I insert my email in your squeeze page I was redirect to the landing page, but I never received the email for the template.
    Any help?
    Emanuele
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  • Profile picture of the author elepepe
    Hey Ben,
    thanks for the prompt answer.
    I did check the Spam, nothing and before to send out the second email I did checked two times (like Santa), but nothing.
    Probably he do not like me LOL.
    Thanks again
    Emanuele
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  • Profile picture of the author WillR
    Originally Posted by MUNK26 View Post

    Hi Ben, I did somewhat of a test with a family picture and saved it in all 3 formats in the same pixels and the info I got from them was as follows: the .Jpeg - 102.2 kb, the Gif - 55.6 kb, and the Png - 147.1 kb. The links from all 3 can be seen below, please let me know if I am in the wrong direction in my thinking or how I have it setup. Thanks.
    There is not set rule for this. The only way to know which image format will give you the best size/quality ratio is to test it for the image you are using. Images with only a few colors are going to have different results to those images with a lot more color and detail.

    Just because a black/white qr code image has a smaller file size when saved as a png does not mean a family photo is going to have the same results. Create your image, save it in the 3 different formats, and then see which one gives you the best quality/size ratio.

    Once you have saved the images you might also try a free service like gifbot (http://www.netmechanic.com/products/...eeSample.shtml) to help get the file size down even further. Using gifbot I was able to get your image down to a 55KB JPEG without losing much quality at all (see below).



    JPEG - 55KB
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    • Profile picture of the author MUNK26
      Thanks for the reply Will (will keep that site in mind). Ben I see what you mean, I tried a qr code and it was exactly as you say. I've been so used to doing a lot of big graphic type work and totally overlooked something a simple as a qr code. Definitely glad to have learned something new.
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  • Profile picture of the author 007ke
    Hi Ben, I submitted on your squeeze page and was confirmed with my email but i never got any products / download link. I also tried to re-submit and found that your system has my email registered ... so there is nothing wrong with me mis-typing or any other issues. I cannot PM you as i do not have enough posts. Do let me know what to do next. Thanks.
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  • Profile picture of the author neoo28
    Thank you Warrior Ben For incredible info . I am reading all your posts and opted in also for your free template.
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  • Profile picture of the author MKTNG
    Ben thanks for the share, always nice to hear about how people are marketing creative solutions to offline businesses and narrowing them down to the profitable ones--that info is priceless.

    Thanks!
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  • Profile picture of the author m4rx
    Hey Warrior Ben, have you ever tried Square Up?

    Would you recommend GoPay over that?

    -Tyler
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    • Profile picture of the author Warrior Ben
      Originally Posted by 007ke View Post

      Hi Ben, I submitted on your squeeze page and was confirmed with my email but i never got any products / download link. I also tried to re-submit and found that your system has my email registered ... so there is nothing wrong with me mis-typing or any other issues. I cannot PM you as i do not have enough posts. Do let me know what to do next. Thanks.
      I sent you a PM with my e-mail address. Send me an e-mail and I will send you the mobile website template directly.


      Originally Posted by m4rx View Post

      Hey Warrior Ben, have you ever tried Square Up?

      Would you recommend GoPay over that?

      -Tyler
      When I was looking into getting a card reader I could use on my phone, I looked at both GoPayment and Square. At the time both their rates were the same and they both offered free card swipers that plug into a smartphone. The reason I ended up choosing GoPayment over Square is because GoPayment allowed recurring monthly payments. Additionally, it integrates seamlessly with Quickbooks, so it makes Accounting a breeze. This was back in January of 2011 though, so maybe Square has a recurring payment option. You could probably call and ask them.

      -Ben
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  • Profile picture of the author PeckhamPirate
    @Ben, I have to hand it to you.
    You kick off some great discussions.

    I'm still reeling from your seat cover idea, and now this.
    I love it.

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  • Hi Ben, I appreciate your method.
    I've never tried to sell mobile websites combined with QR Codes.
    Now it's the time to act!

    See you soon,
    Alessandro Zamboni
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  • Profile picture of the author Detlev
    Wow, what a thread!!
    Lots of good information, inspiration and resources.

    Thanks!!
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  • Profile picture of the author InTh3Moment
    This is an awesome thread. Thank you much Ben! Thanks also to everyone else that contributed to the thread, you guys all helped me out a lot.

    I am still going to go about selling complete consulting/web design/SEO packages this week but if I add this on top maybe some jaws will drop, that would be nice. Of course this is 6 months after you guys are all talking about it and I don't know if most businesses will be already familiar with this stuff. Thanks again guys.
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  • Profile picture of the author cow1981
    its a good idea to ad a link under the QR Code as well for printing probs as the prospects can go to link and download QR code from there its a good tip to do people
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